Richard Burns, English race car driver (d. 2005)
Richard Alexander Burns (17 January 1971 – 25 November 2005) was an exceptional English rally driver, widely celebrated for his dynamic driving style and remarkable achievements in the fiercely competitive World Rally Championship (WRC). He etched his name into motorsport history by becoming the 2001 World Rally Champion, a crowning achievement in a career marked by incredible consistency and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Burns' journey to the pinnacle of rallying was a testament to his perseverance. Before securing his ultimate victory, he had already demonstrated his formidable talent by finishing as the runner-up in the WRC series for two consecutive years, in 1999 and 2000. These near misses only fueled his determination, setting the stage for his dramatic 2001 championship triumph. Driving the iconic Subaru Impreza WRC, Burns secured the title in front of his home crowd at the final event of the season, the Rally Great Britain, a moment of immense national pride and a defining point in his career.
Beyond his individual championship, Burns was also instrumental in securing crucial world manufacturers' titles for two prominent teams. In 1998, he played a vital role in Mitsubishi's success, contributing significantly to their championship win while piloting the powerful Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. Later in his career, in 2002, he brought his extensive experience and skill to Peugeot, helping them clinch the manufacturers' title with the formidable Peugeot 206 WRC.
Throughout his entire professional career, Burns formed an unbreakable partnership with his co-driver, Robert Reid. Their synergy and deep understanding were fundamental to their success, exemplifying the critical bond required between a driver and co-driver in the high-stakes environment of international rallying. Reid's precise pace notes and unwavering support were as crucial to their victories as Burns' incredible car control and speed.
Richard Burns holds a unique and revered place in British motorsport history. He remains the only Englishman to have ever won the World Rally Championship as a driver, an extraordinary distinction that underscores his singular talent and enduring legacy. His passing on 25 November 2005, following a battle with an astrocytoma brain tumour, was a profound loss to the rallying world, tragically on the very same date he won his championship four years earlier, making his legacy all the more poignant.
Frequently Asked Questions About Richard Burns
- When was Richard Burns born and when did he pass away?
Richard Alexander Burns was born on 17 January 1971 and sadly passed away on 25 November 2005.
- What was Richard Burns' most significant achievement in rallying?
His most significant achievement was winning the 2001 World Rally Championship, becoming the first and only Englishman to achieve this feat as a driver.
- Who was Richard Burns' co-driver throughout his career?
Robert Reid was Richard Burns' dedicated co-driver for his entire professional rallying career, forming a highly successful partnership.
- Which manufacturers did Richard Burns help win world titles?
Richard Burns contributed to Mitsubishi winning the World Manufacturers' title in 1998 and Peugeot achieving the same in 2002.
- Which cars did Richard Burns drive during his WRC career?
Richard Burns primarily drove for Subaru, winning his championship in a Subaru Impreza WRC. He also competed for Mitsubishi (Lancer Evolution) and Peugeot (206 WRC) during his time in the WRC.